‘Discovering’ Public Affairs and Policy

By Odelia Kamhi, Intern

Principle Consulting believes that all young people should be empowered to make a positive difference on issues that affect their lives and their communities. In the six months that I’ve been fortunate to have been part of Principle’s team as a public affairs and policy intern, I’ve had the opportunity to see that vision realised firsthand and it has truly enriched my experience advocating for meaningful policy change. 

From my first day at our King’s Cross office, the opportunities to learn were numerous. As soon as I was welcomed into the team I began supporting a diverse range of client projects across the health, education, children and immigration sectors. From conducting parliamentary monitoring to writing daily media briefs and engaging MPs and parliamentarians through stakeholder mapping for All-Party-Parliamentary events. I’ve learnt that the breadth of campaigning tools available to charities is vast, even with limited resources. 

As an avid writer, supporting the research, drafting and writing of policy briefs, manifestos, consultation proposals and social media communications for a range of clients, has been incredibly valuable. I joined during a moment of increased political fluidity following the 2024 election and quickly learnt how to navigate competing policy priorities in a new political landscape. Identifying the right window of opportunity to influence policy requires both a pulse on media and political developments, and a discipline to stay focused on the long-term vision – one that includes the voices of those with lived experience. 

The opportunity to meet one-to-one with senior leaders from our charity clients has also deepened my understanding of these challenges from a uniquely expert perspective. Principle’s flexibility in supporting me undertake this internship part-time alongside my Masters in Politics and Communications, has not only enriched my practical and professional understanding of public affairs, but reinforced for me its tangible value in shaping social impact.

After 26 weeks, I leave Principle with not only an expanded skill set and a greater confidence and motivation, but a huge amount of gratitude for the team’s mentorship and continued guidance. Principle’s commitment to go above and beyond for the charities they support is an ambition and value that I will seek to emulate as I continue into my early career. 

It has been a privilege to work closely with fantastic charities learning from a dedicated team truly committed to ensure people with lived experience are at the heart of policymaking. 

I would encourage anyone curious or ambitious about pursuing a career in public affairs and policy consulting for charities, to apply for Principle’s next internship position. It will no doubt be a rewarding, valuable and meaningful experience. 

Three key takeaways I’ve learnt during my time at Principle:

• Advocacy starts by empowering those with lived experience who are closest to the solution. It’s the voices that matter the most but are often heard the least that matter.
• Timing is critical. A sharp awareness of the evolving political landscape and a willingness to adapt to change, is key to seizing the right opportunities.
• Behind every successful campaign is a dedicated team focused on the long term vision. Collaboration and a shared commitment to meaningful change are essential to creating lasting impact.